The Union government has quietly carried out an internal review after allegations surfaced linking Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to documents associated with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

According to sources, the review was initiated soon after media discussions suggested that the minister’s name appeared in certain records connected to investigations in the United States. Officials recorded Puri’s detailed explanation as part of the preliminary fact-finding exercise.

Government Says No Evidence Of Wrongdoing

Sources familiar with the process indicated that, based on initial findings, no material suggesting criminal or improper conduct has been found against the minister. The internal scrutiny reportedly focused on verifying claims about meetings and email exchanges that were highlighted in public debate.

The controversy gained traction after reports alleged that files linked to the U.S. Department of Justice referenced Puri’s name multiple times. These claims were amplified by opposition leaders who demanded clarity over the nature of any interaction.

Congress Demands Explanation

The Indian National Congress has alleged that between 2014 and 2017, there were dozens of email exchanges between Puri and Epstein, along with several meetings. The party has called for full disclosure of the content and context of these alleged communications and has sought the minister’s resignation, arguing that public accountability is necessary.

Minister Calls Charges ‘Political Attack’

Puri has firmly denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the accusations as politically motivated. He clarified that he had met Epstein only a handful of times in official settings and as part of delegations during his diplomatic career.

Responding to criticism from Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Puri stated that his interactions were unrelated to any criminal activities later associated with Epstein. He also claimed that the exchanges being cited have been taken out of context.

Political Tensions Rise

The issue has added another layer of tension between the ruling establishment and the opposition. While the government maintains that no incriminating evidence has surfaced so far, opposition leaders continue to press for greater transparency.